Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX Review: Off-Road Heritage Meets Modern Comfort

By Ridewise Automotive — August 2025

The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition marks a significant evolution in Toyota's legendary off-road SUV lineup. Combining rugged heritage with modern efficiency and comfort, this special edition offers a compelling package for adventure enthusiasts and urban drivers alike. For more detailed specifications and features, visit the official Toyota Land Cruiser page.

2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition SUV in profile view parked in showroom

Image credit: Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition by TTTNIS, via Wikimedia Commons (CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.).


Engine & Performance

The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition blends rugged off-road capability with modern efficiency. Powered by a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine, it delivers 368 horsepower and 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque, ensuring robust performance across diverse terrains. Coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, including center and rear locking differentials, it offers exceptional off-road prowess.

Fuel efficiency is commendable for its class, with an estimated 7.5 km/L in WLTC mode, translating to approximately 22.5 mpg combined. However, real-world figures may vary based on driving conditions and load. For instance, some owners report around 19.2 mpg under mixed driving scenarios. Car and Driver notes that the hybrid powertrain provides good torque but mentions that the boost from the electric motors can be inconsistent due to the small battery pack.

In summary, the Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition offers a balanced blend of power, efficiency, and off-road capability, making it a compelling choice for adventure enthusiasts and urban drivers alike.

Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition rear

Image Credit: Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition. by TTTNIS, via Wikimedia Commons. Licensed Under (CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.)


Exterior & Design

The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition masterfully blends rugged off-road capability with modern design elements. Drawing inspiration from the 1984 LJ70 model, it features a boxy, retro-inspired silhouette that pays homage to its heritage. The bold "TOYOTA" front grille and round Bi-Beam LED headlights with auto-leveling function enhance its commanding presence on and off the road. Matte black 18-inch aluminum wheels paired with 265/70R18 off-road tires underscore its adventurous spirit.

The body-on-frame construction, shared with the larger J300 series, offers increased rigidity and durability, ensuring resilience in challenging terrains. The design prioritizes practicality, with easily replaceable body panels to withstand the rigors of off-road adventures. This fusion of classic styling and modern engineering makes the Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition a standout in both urban settings and rugged landscapes.

For a closer look at its design, visit the official Toyota photo gallery.

Interior Comfort & Technology

The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition offers a blend of rugged durability and modern comfort. Inside, the cabin features Dark Chestnut SofTex®-trimmed seats, providing a warm and durable environment. The horizontal instrument panel design enhances visibility and reduces the feeling of confinement, while the upright A-pillars minimize blind spots, supporting safe off-road driving. The interior layout includes centrally located switches, differentiated by function, to facilitate concentration on driving in challenging conditions.

Technologically, the Land Cruiser is equipped with a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Standard features include a 2400W AC inverter, six USB ports, and a wireless Qi-compatible charging pad. For enhanced audio, an available 14-speaker JBL® Premium Audio system is offered. The cabin also boasts a 7-inch color Multi-Information Display and an optional Head-Up Display, providing essential information without distraction.

For a closer look at its interior features, visit the official Toyota interior tour.


Video Review: Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition

For an in-depth review of the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition, watch the following video:


Pricing & Value

The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition offers exceptional value for those seeking a blend of rugged off-road capability and modern comfort. With a starting MSRP of $58,195, it provides a comprehensive suite of features designed for both adventure and daily driving.

  • Land Cruiser 1958 – Starting at $56,700 MSRP
  • Land Cruiser – Starting at $61,470 MSRP

Each trim level offers a unique set of features to cater to different preferences and needs. The Land Cruiser 1958 pays homage to classic design elements, while the higher trims provide enhanced comfort and advanced technology. For more detailed information on each trim level and its features, visit the official Toyota Land Cruiser page.

Safety & Ratings

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of advanced safety features designed to enhance driver and passenger protection. Standard features include:

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
  • Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
  • Lane Tracing Assist
  • Road Sign Assist
  • Automatic High Beams
  • Proactive Driving Assist

These features work together to help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of collisions. Additionally, the Land Cruiser includes Toyota Teammate, which offers advanced driving support technologies such as Advanced Drive for traffic congestion assistance. For more detailed information on these safety features, visit the official Toyota Land Cruiser features page.

Conclusion

The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition successfully blends the brand's renowned off-road prowess with modern technology and comfort. Its limited availability adds to its exclusivity, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a capable and stylish SUV. Whether navigating challenging terrains or cruising city streets, the Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition stands ready for any adventure.

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